penticton - craft beer capital of bc

* content from bcaletrail.ca

The name Penticton translates to “a place to stay forever.” After just one visit, you’ll know why. Between the beaches, vineyards, vistas, and craft breweries, this small city is definitely one of BC’s best-kept secrets.

Nestled between Lake Okanagan and Skaha Lake and surrounded by vineyards, orchards, trails, and gorgeous scenery, Penticton is paradise for cyclists, hikers, rock climbers and anyone who likes relaxing on a warm, sandy beach. On a hot day, splash in the cool lake, float on the water on a stand-up paddleboard, canoe or kayak, or drift lazily on an inner tube down the channel between the two lakes. If you’re feeling more active, head to the majestic Skaha Bluffs for some sensational rock climbing or jump on a bike to explore the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. In this four-season playground, you can golf most of the year, shop for local produce at the Penticton Farmers’ Market and fruit stands, and hit the slopes at nearby Apex Mountain Resort in the winter.

There is a lot more to this picturesque, lakefront city in the heart of BC’s wine country than the beach, the Peach and the Naramata Bench. Penticton has been a leader of the Okanagan craft beer scene for more than 25 years as home to the annual Okanagan Fest of Ale and a strong community of seven craft breweries. And in 2020, that legacy was recognized by Lonely Planet when it named Penticton Canada’s “craft beer capital.”

Early founders Tin Whistle Brewery and the Barley Mill Brewpub ignited the craft beer scene more than 25 years ago. Innovation and new energy were provided by Cannery Brewing, Bad Tattoo Brewing, and Highway 97 Brewing. The newest arrivals, Slackwater Brewing and Neighbourhood Brewing, bring a fresh energy to downtown Penticton. And local pubs and restaurants offer even more options for craft beer explorations following a day at the golf course or touring some of the excellent local wineries. This truly is a place to stay forever.

                                                                     Know Before You Go 

Before visiting, we recommend that you check directly with the businesses you are hoping to visit to get the latest on-the-ground information. Some businesses are seasonal, and some may have experienced closures due to COVID-19.